SECURITY AWARENESS - FIRE

 FIRE 

Fire is the Chemical reaction of Fuel, heat and oxygen.

STAGES OF FIRE

• Ignition: This is the initial stage where heat, oxygen, and fuel come together to start a fire. 
• Growth: If conditions are favorable, the fire will grow. This growth may depend upon factors like fuel type and quantity, oxygen availability, and source intensity of heat. 
• Fully developed: At this stage, the fire has consumed all available fuel and oxygen in the immediate area. It produces maximum heat. 
• Decay: The fire decreases in intensity as fuel is consumed or as the oxygen supply is restricted.

Types of fire

• Solid A Type
• Wood, Paper, Cloth
• Water, Foam Spray
• Cooling-Heat smothering –O2
• Liquid B Type
• Gasoline, Grease, Oil, Paint, Patrol
• DCP, CO2 Foam Spray
• Smothering-O2
• Gas C Type
• Gas Fire, Hydrogen, Butane, Methane
• DCP
• Starvation - Fuel Smothering-O2
• Metal D
• Potassium, Sodium, Aluminum, Magnesium
• DCP
• Smothering-O2
• Electric 
• Wiring, Fuse Box, Computers, Generator
• CO2 ABC Type
• Smothering-O2
• Kitchen
• Vegetable oil, Animal Oil, Fats
• Wet Chemical FE
• Cooling-HeatSmothering-O2

 

 

FINDING A FIRE 

If a fire is found on-site, set off the fire alarm by activating the nearest fire alarm pull station. Attempt to put out the fire if it is safe to do so. If it is not safe to do so, follow the evacuation procedure.

HOW TO USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER - PASS METHOD

• PULL - Pull the pin. This will also break the tamper seal.
• AIM - Aim low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle (or its horn or hose) at the base of the fire. Note - do not touch the plastic discharge horn on C02 extinguishers, it gets very cold and may damage skin
• SQUEEZE - Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
• SWEEP - Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch the area. If the fire reignites, repeat steps 2-4.

METHODS OF FIRE EXTINGUISHMENT

COOLING - Removal of heat from the scene of fire is called as cooling. By water, foam extinguisher

STARVATION - Removal of fuel from the scene of fire is called starvation. By cutting fuel supply

SMOOTHERING - Removal of oxygen from the scene of fire is called as smothering. By using C02, DCP fire extinguisher

FIRE EMERGENCY

• Find - Type of fire, Size of fire, Location of fire
• Inform to seniors/ fire brigade - Name & department, Type of fire, Size of fire, Location of fire
• Rescue if it is uncontrolled - Priority -  Old age people, Child, Carrying mother, Handicapped
• Evacuate - Collect, Assembly point, Head count,  Any missing – inform to ERT

FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM COMPONENTS

1. Fire detection systems
2. Fire alarm systems
3. Fire suppression systems

Fire detection systems

• Smoke detectors: These devices are designed to identify the presence of smoke particles in the air, indicating the onset of a fire. They are typically installed on ceilings or high on walls.
• Heat detectors: Heat detectors are designed to respond when temperatures suddenly spike or when certain thresholds are exceeded, such as in kitchens or garages where smoke alarms might falsely alarm. They're often the ideal choice in these settings where false alarms could arise from smoke detectors.
• Flame detectors: These cutting-edge devices use advanced algorithms to detect infrared or ultraviolet light generated by flames in high-risk environments, such as power plants or chemical storage facilities.

Fire alarm systems

• Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP): Also known as the fire alarm control unit (FACU), this is the system's brain. It monitors all connected devices and relays information, such as alarms and system status, to the building occupants or remote monitoring service.
• Alarm initiating devices: These include manual pull stations and automatic detectors like smoke and heat detectors, which send a signal to the FACP when activated.
• Manual initiating devices
• Example - Mcp 
• Automatic initiating devices
• Ex: Heat detectors, smoke detectors, fire sprinklers
• Alarm notification appliances: These devices alert building occupants of a fire. They include audible alarms (bells, sirens, and voice evacuation messages) and visual alarms (flashing strobe lights).
• Primary power supply – it is typically 120- or 240-volt AC power sources
• Backup primary supply – in case of power failure, a backup power supply is an important part of any fire alarm and detection system. The backup power supply includes 6- or 12-volt batteries to keep the system running when a power failure happens.

Fire suppression systems

• Sprinkler Systems: These are active fire protection devices that discharge water when heat triggers the sprinkler. Sprinklers can control or even extinguish a fire in its early stages, minimizing damage and giving occupants more time to evacuate.
• Fire extinguishers: These are portable devices containing a substance – water, foam, dry chemical, or CO2 – that can be discharged to extinguish a small fire.
• Clean agent systems: These systems use gases that extinguish a fire by removing heat or reducing oxygen. They are often used in areas with sensitive electronics, where water-based suppression could cause damage.

TYPES OF SMOKE DETECTORS

Smoke detectors identify the presence of smoke in the air, which indicates a potential fire. There are two main types of smoke detectors: ionisation and optical (photoelectric).

 

Ionisation Smoke Detectors

Contain a small amount of radioactive material that ionises air molecules, creating a small electric current between two plates.

Smoke particles entering the chamber disrupt the ionisation process, reducing the current and triggering the alarm.

More responsive to fast-flaming fires, which produce minimal visible smoke.

 less used bcz of false alarm

 

Optical (Photoelectric) Smoke Detectors

Use a light beam and a sensor to detect smoke particles in the air.

When smoke enters the chamber, it scatters the light, directing it towards the sensor and activating the alarm.

More effective at detecting slow-smouldering fires, which generate a significant amount of smoke before flames appear.

 

Combination Smoke Detectors

Utilise both ionisation and optical technologies to provide comprehensive detection.

Capable of detecting both fast-flaming and slow-smouldering fires.

Reduce the risk of false alarms by differentiating between smoke from cooking and actual fire hazards.

Heat detectors 

• Temp – 58 DEGREE C 

AREA COVERED 

• Smoke detectors – 100m2 
• Heat detectors – 50 m2 
• How long heat detector last – 10 years

Fire alarm control panels

Types

• Conventional fire alarm panels 
• These are ideal for small buildings such as homes, individual office or retail shops.
• To indicate fire in a building, each floor is typically divided into a zone. A building with 3 floors can be subdivided into 3 zones with each zone containing a wire connecting multiple initiating devices (e.g., detectors, call points)
• The drawback of a conventional fire alarm system is its limitation in determining the exact location of the fire in the zone.
• Since each zone has multiple devices connected to it, a fire alarm notification would only notify a zone is triggered, without specifying the exact device that was triggered, without specifying the exact device that was triggered.
• Addressable Fire alarm panel 
• These are traditionally used for complex projects or large buildings, nevertheless with technological advancement. They have become more affordable and are used more frequently on smaller sites as well.
• As the name states, each device in the system has an address. In other words, each detector, call point, interface, sounder and beacon are connected directly to the control panel.
• When the alarm is triggered, the controller can pinpoint the location where the fire is detected or where the device is triggered. 
• Addressable fire alarm systems give information about individual detectors whereas conventional systems only give information about specific zones.

Terminology related to fire alarm control panels

• Detector
• False alarm
• Fire alarm signal
• Trouble signal
• Acknowledge (ACK)
• Signal silence
• Lamp test
• Pre-alarm
• System reset

REGULAR TESTING AND MAINTENANCE OF FAS

Monthly Alarm Testing   Testing alarms every month verifies that they are operational and capable of detecting smoke or carbon monoxide. A malfunctioning alarm can fail to provide the necessary warning in an emergency.   Press the test button on each alarm to confirm it sounds properly. Ensure the alarm’s volume is loud enough to be heard throughout the home. Inspect for dust, debris, or any obstructions that might interfere with sensor function. Replace any alarm that does not sound during testing, even after battery replacement.

Annual Battery Replacement   Changing alarm batteries annually helps prevent device failure due to power loss. Even long-life batteries can degrade over time, reducing alarm effectiveness.   Use manufacturer-recommended batteries to maintain reliability. Avoid waiting for low-battery chirps, as alarms may fail before providing this warning. If the alarm uses a sealed, non-replaceable battery, replace the entire unit as directed by the manufacturer. Dispose old batteries safely to prevent fire hazards.

Replacing Alarms Every 10 Years   Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms degrade over time, making sensor accuracy less reliable. Replacing them at least every 10 years ensures continuous functionality.   Check the manufacturing date on the alarm’s label to determine when it should be replaced. Install new alarms that meet current safety standards and include updated features. Replace all alarms at the same time to maintain a consistent level of protection. Dispose of old alarms according to local regulations, as some contain hazardous materials.

THE ROLE OF FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM SYSTEMS

Fire detection and alarm systems are crucial in alerting building occupants of a fire and allowing for swift evacuation. They can also automatically alert the local fire department or a monitoring Centre. By providing an early warning, they can significantly reduce loss of life and property damage. Fire detection and alarm systems are critical components of fire safety strategies, providing early warning and enabling swift action in the event of a fire.

MANUAL CALL POINT (MCP)

·        It is the point in a building where a switch used manually to activate fire alarm, this requires human intervention. In the automatic fire alarm system, an alarm is triggered through the use of heat detectors and smoke detectors

·        Manual call points are used to initiate an alarm signal and operate by means of a simple button press or when glass is broken revealing a button.

·        A fire alarm call point should be installed at a height of 1.4 m above floor level at easily accessible positions. This includes on exit routes, at the entry floor landing of staircases and at all exits to the open air.

·        A fire alarm call point should also be spaced so that one may always be found within a maximum distance of 30m apart.

TYPES

1.     Break glass unit

2.     Pull type

3.  Push type

FIRE SPRIKLERS

Parts

1.     Deflectors

2.     Glass tube (mixture of glycerin & water or alcohol & water)

3.     Joint threads

4.     Frame

Types On Basis of temperature

Type	Temperature (0c)	Used
Orange	57	Living room
Red	68	Office, residential building
Yellow	79	Small kitchen
Green	93	kitchen
Blue	142	industry
Mauve	182	industry
Black	260	refinery

Types Based on design/ Deflectors

1.     Pendant

2.     Upright

3.     Sidewall

4.     Concealed

FUNCTION OF AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

Sprinkler heads contain a thermal element, such as a glass bulb filled with a heat-sensitive liquid or a fusible metal link. When the surrounding temperature reaches a predetermined threshold, the thermal element breaks, releasing water.

Fire Suppression Systems and Equipment

Understanding fire suppression

Fire suppression refers to the practice of controlling or quenching an outbreak of flames through various applications of substances or substances applied directly onto them.

Fire suppression systems

Fire suppression systems are designed to detect fires and act to extinguish them automatically or aid in their extinguishment. These generally fall under two categories:

1.     Water-based systems: These are the most common and include sprinkler systems and water mist systems. Sprinkler systems use a network of pipes to distribute water when a fire is detected, while water mist systems use water mist to cool the fire and displace oxygen.

2.     Gas-based systems: These systems use gases, such as carbon dioxide or clean agent gases, which are designed to suppress a fire without damaging electronic equipment. These are commonly used in data centers, server rooms, or areas where water damage needs to be avoided.

Fire Suppression Equipment

Fire suppression is the act of extinguishing or controlling a fire at its source to prevent it from spreading. This can significantly reduce property damage and ensure life safety.

 

The equipment for fire suppression can be broadly categorized into two groups:

1.     Fixed Fire Suppression Systems

2.     Portable Fire Suppression Equipment

It is important to understand that fire suppression equipment is the first line of defense against fires. There are various other tools and equipment that can be used to fight fires. However, those are intended for use only by professional firefighters and are not covered in this course.

FIXED FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS

These systems are typically installed in a building or structure on a permanent basis. Common types are:

	Sprinkler Systems A sprinkler system is a network of small water sprinkling devices, known as sprinkler heads, connected to a reliable water supply source through fixed piping. The sprinkler heads keep the system sealed and automatically release water when exposed to heat. They operate at a predetermined temperature, so the sprinkler head closest to the fire activates first. Since sprinkler systems use water to extinguish fires, they are suitable for Class A fires, which are common in buildings such as hotels, schools, hospitals, and offices.
	Deluge Systems Deluge systems are similar to sprinkler systems, except they employ sprinkler heads that are always open. The water supply is controlled by a specialized valve known as a deluge valve. The deluge valve can be opened either automatically by a fire-detection device or manually by a trained person. Depending on the fire hazards present, water or a foam mixture discharges through all the open sprinklers at once. Deluge systems are especially effective in suppressing rapidly spreading fires such as those caused by flammable liquids.
	Total Flood Systems Total flood systems are installed in areas where there is a need to quickly suppress fires and protect high-value and sensitive items such as record rooms, data centers, and equipment control panels. They work by discharging an inert gas, usually CO2 or nitrogen, throughout an entire space to suppress the fire. The inert gas is stored in compressed gas cylinders and is discharged into the area through fixed piping and nozzles. It is important to note that total flood systems are unsuitable for protecting normally occupied areas as they reduce the oxygen concentration to fatal levels.
	Standpipe and Hose Systems A standpipe and hose system is an arrangement of pipes, valves, and hose connections installed in a building to provide a reliable source of water for manual fire suppression. These systems are for use only by trained individuals or professional firefighters. In high-rise buildings, the fixed piping of a standpipe system allows firefighters to connect their hose lines to a pressurized water source near the fire floor. This eliminates the need for firefighters to extend hoses into the building from the ground level to the fire floor, making the firefighting process more efficient and effective.

 

PORTABLE FIRE SUPPRESSION EQUIPMENT

These are portable devices designed to be used manually to extinguish small fires and require minimal training to operate. The most common portable fire suppression equipment include:

	Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers are among the most commonly found fire suppression equipment in workplaces and residential settings. They come in various types and sizes, each designed to extinguish specific classes of fire. Fire extinguishers typically have labels or color coding on them to indicate the fire extinguishing agent they contain and the classes of fire they are suitable for. For instance, in the UK, water extinguishers are marked with a red label, dry chemical powder extinguishers have a blue label, foam extinguishers feature a cream band, and CO2 extinguishers are identified with a black label.
	Fire Blankets A fire blanket is a small sheet made of fire-resistant and electrically insulated fabric designed to cover small fires. It works by cutting off the oxygen supply to the fire, thereby extinguishing it. Fire blankets are typically stored in quick-release pouches and placed near areas where the risk of fire is high, such as kitchens. When used correctly, fire blankets can effectively put out any type of small fire.
	Fire Buckets A fire bucket is a simple yet effective piece of fire suppression equipment. It is easy to use, relatively inexpensive, and can be useful in extinguishing small fires. Fire buckets are usually painted red to make them easy to identify during an emergency. Depending on the type of fuels present in the area, they can be filled with water, sand, or chemical powder.

Fire Suppression Mechanism

Gas-based systems work by displacing oxygen, interrupting chemical reactions, or cooling the fire to below combustion temperatures. Depending on the type of gas used, suppression is achieved through one or more of these methods:

Inert Gases (Argon, Nitrogen, and Carbon Dioxide): These gases lower oxygen levels to below the threshold necessary for combustion while remaining safe for human occupancy at proper concentrations.

Clean Agents (FM-200, Novec 1230, and Halon Replacements): These suppress fires through heat absorption and chemical reaction disruption without depleting oxygen, making them safe for occupied spaces.

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Systems: These displace oxygen rapidly and are highly effective but can be hazardous to human life, often used in unoccupied areas.

FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

Regular maintenance prevents malfunctions and ensures compliance with fire safety regulations.

·        Quarterly and Annual Testing: Conduct functional tests on suppression systems at intervals specified by BS 5306-4 and other applicable British Standards. Kitchen hood systems typically require servicing every six months.

·        Component Replacement: Replace worn or expired components such as nozzles, hoses, and pressure switches as needed.

·        Discharge and Recharge Procedures: If a system discharges or shows signs of failure, recharging and resetting must be completed immediately by a qualified technician.

·        Hydrostatic Testing of Cylinders: Suppression system cylinders must undergo periodic hydrostatic testing to confirm structural integrity, with intervals varying based on the agent type.

Fire Extinguisher

·        monthly visual inspections

·        annual professional servicing

·        hydrostatic testing at intervals ranging from 5 to 12 years.

 

Sprinkler systems

·        quarterly inspections

·        annual flow tests

Color Code Classification of Fire Extinguishers

• Water extinguishers have a red label
• AFFF Foam extinguishers have a cream label
• CO2 extinguishers have a black label
• ABC powder extinguishers have a blue label
• De-ionized water mist extinguishers have a white label
• Wet chemical extinguishers have a yellow label.

HYDROSTATIC TESTING

• All cylinders require periodic hydrostatic testing as required by the Department of Transportation (DOT). During hydrostatic

testing, the cylinder is examined to ensure it can safely hold its rated pressure. Cylinder owners must set up this testing

prior to refilling the cylinder, whereas rented cylinders will be tested by their owner prior to refill.

• The frequency of the testing depends upon the cylinder material:

- Aluminum –every 5 years

- Steel –every 5 years

COMMUNICATION TOOLS IN FIRE EMERGENCIES
Various tools can be used for communication in a fire emergency:

Fire alarm systems: Fire alarms are the most basic form of communication in a fire emergency. They alert occupants to the danger and signal the need to evacuate.

Public address systems: Public Address (PA) systems are used to convey verbal instructions to occupants. They are particularly useful in larger buildings where more detailed instructions may be needed.
Fire wardens or floor marshals: In larger buildings, floor marshals or fire wardens may be appointed to help communicate information and instructions to other occupants of the facility.

Emergency lighting and signage: Emergency lighting and signage can guide occupants quickly towards exits while providing information such as the locations of fire extinguishers in case an evacuation becomes necessary.

FIRE PREVENTION STRATEGIES

·        Good housekeeping practices

·        Safe storage of flammable and combustible material

·        Control of ignition sources

·        Regular equipment maintenance

     ·          Training and Education

COMMON WORKPLACE FIRE HAZARDS

·        Electrical equipment: Faulty or overused electrical equipment can overheat and cause a fire. This includes overloading power sockets, frayed cords, and malfunctioning machinery.

·        Flammable and combustible materials: These could be as simple as paper and cardboard or more hazardous like chemicals and gases. Improper storage, disposal, or handling can result in fires.

·        Human error and negligence: Unattended cooking in kitchen areas, careless disposal of cigarettes, or not properly turning off equipment can all potentially lead to fires.

·        Industrial processes: Processes like welding, grinding, or chemical reactions can generate heat or sparks, igniting fires if not properly controlled.

FIRE SAFETY INSPECTIONS AND AUDITS

Understanding fire safety inspections and audits
Fire safety inspections and audits are assessments conducted to ensure buildings or facilities comply with fire safety regulations, identify any potential fire hazards and assess current measures' effectiveness while also identifying areas for improvements that might need attention.

Key components of fire safety inspections
A fire safety inspection typically covers several key areas

 

·        Fire protection equipment: Fire safety equipment such as extinguishers, sprinklers, alarms and detection systems must be checked regularly to ensure they remain operational in good order. They should also be placed correctly.

·        Emergency exits and evacuation routes: Regular inspections should ensure that emergency exits and evacuation routes are accessible, well-marked, and clearly accessible to ensure smooth operations in case of an emergency situation.

·        Electrical systems: Faulty wiring and equipment malfunction are major causes of fires, making electrical inspections an essential way of checking for their safe operation and upkeep. Regular check-ups on our electrical systems are necessary in order to keep everyone safe.

·        Storage areas: The way materials are stored can significantly impact fire risk. Inspectors will check that flammable materials are stored correctly and that storage areas are kept clean and organized.

·        Fire doors and walls: Fire doors and walls play a pivotal role in protecting against the spread of fire, so regular checks to ensure they're still operating correctly should be conducted to make sure there hasn't been any modification done to them or anyone tampering with them.

 

FIREFIGHTING TECHNIQUES

·        Direct attack: A direct attack involves applying water or other extinguishing agents directly onto the burning fuel. The objective is to cool the material below its ignition temperature, thereby extinguishing the fire.

·        Indirect attack: In an indirect attack, firefighters aim the water or other extinguishing agents at the ceiling to cool and condense the fire gases. This is usually done in extremely hot and potentially explosive environments.

·        Offensive vs. defensive attacks: An offensive attack is aimed at aggressively and directly extinguishing the fire, often conducted inside the burning structure. In contrast, a defensive attack focuses on containing the fire to prevent it from spreading to other areas or structures.

·        Ventilation: Ventilation is used to flush away heat, smoke and toxic gases from structures and replace them with fresh air for improved visibility and reduced temperatures for firefighters entering buildings, making it safer and simpler to locate and rescue occupants.

POST-FIRE RECOVERY

·        Initial damage assessment - An initial step of fire recovery involves conducting an assessment of damage. This helps identify feasible repairs as well as costs involved and plan restoration accordingly.

·        Cleaning and restoration - Cleaning involves removing soot, debris, and any potential hazards from the premises. Restoration includes repairing structural damage, replacing damaged items, and making necessary upgrades to prevent future incidents.

·        Emotional recovery - Emotional recovery is also crucial. Individuals affected may require counseling or psychological support in order to deal with the trauma caused by fires.

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT PROCESS

·        Identify hazards

·        Identify people at risk

·        Evaluate, remove, reduce, and protect from risk

·        Record, plan, inform, instruct, and train

     ·      Review 

 

FIRE INVESTIGATION

·        Origin determination: The investigator first identifies the physical location where the fire started. This is usually the area with the most severe damage

·        Cause determination: Step two is to determine what caused the fire; this could include anything from heat sources or substances which combust to sparking ignition sources.

·        Fire development analysis: Fire investigators also study how the fire spread and developed, considering factors such as the layout of the premises, the materials present, and the ventilation conditions.

·        Documentation and reporting: Investigators document their findings, often through a detailed written report, photographs, and diagrams. The report can be used for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings and to inform future fire prevention strategies.

·        Role of forensic science: Forensic science plays a significant role in fire investigation. Techniques such as lab analysis of fire debris can reveal the presence of accelerants, while fire modeling can help understand the fire's progression. The post-fire recovery and investigation processes are critical steps towards restoring normalcy after a fire incident and preventing future occurrences. They involve thorough analysis, restoration efforts, and careful documentation, all of which contribute to the broader goal of fire safety.

REFUGE ARE & ASSEMBLY POINT ·        A refuge area is a place of safety within a building while an assembly point is a safe place outside of a building. ·        Refuge area generally important in High rise buildings where evacuation can be dangerous and time consuming ·        National Building code (NBC) requires that high rise buildings have a refuge area on every 7th floor or after 24 meters in height ·        The terrace floor is also considering a refuge area ·        Refuge areas are not intended for evacuation but for temporary safety.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS ·        All the fire equipment to be checked regularly whether serviceable or unserviceable ·        Security should know where the fire extinguisher is located / installed and to be able to operate them immediately in case of any fire accidents ·        In case of fire, rush to the spot. Muster all manpower available and take control of firefighting operations ·        Employees to be made aware to respond during emergency, mock drills to be done & fire exit posters to be pasted at necessary spots ·        If necessary, security should call ambulance team & fire station. ·        Don’t plug too many appliances at once. ·        If electrical fire, use sand, rice ·        Do not use lift ·        Use the stairs move down in a single line ·        Switch of electrical main ·       Crawl low under smoke

 

EVACUATION GUIDELINES

·        If the building is to be evacuated, inform the Fire Department/Fire Brigade at the earliest opportunity (even if your fire alarm system automatically dials emergency services, follow up with a call to confirm). ·        During evacuation, access control systems will be disabled, all doors will be released open, and card readers will be disabled to ensure easy and uninterrupted exit of all members. ·        Elevators/lifts should not be used during an evacuation, and the elevators/lifts will not be working. ·        Personal belongings must not be taken. ·        Ensure there is access to the building for emergency services.

After the Evacuation ·        The Site Leader/Incident Commander or Site Response Lead will make the decision if and when to re-enter the building. Security Guard force members must re-enter the building before any other people to make sure all systems are reset and working (example: card readers) and monitor the re-entry flow. ·        There will be many people returning; Security Guard force members must be very watchful and make sure all badges are worn and swiped. ·        People who left their badge at their desk or inside a secure spaced will have to request a loaner badge at Reception or ask a colleague to bring the badge to the in the lobby/Reception.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLANNING

Understanding emergency evacuation planning

An emergency evacuation plan details procedures to safely get everyone out of a building during a fire emergency. Each building and its inhabitants require its own specific plan that takes into account factors like building layout, the number of occupants present, and activities being conducted within.

Key components of an emergency evacuation plan

An effective evacuation plan usually includes several key components:

● Evacuation routes and exits: Your plan should include all possible escape routes and exits from the building, with each path marked clearly for easy identification at any time and free from obstructions.

● Assembly points: Once out of the building, people need to know where to go. The plan should indicate a safe assembly point away from the building where everyone can gather and a headcount can be conducted.

● Fire wardens or marshals: In any emergency evacuation process, fire wardens and marshals must provide guidance and assist others during evacuation procedures. Their training must include remaining calm during an inspection sweep of a building to help guide others toward safety.

● Communication procedures: Your plan must address how people will be informed of an imminent fire and their need to evacuate, whether through an alarm system, public address system, or another means.

● Special considerations: An evacuation plan must accommodate those occupants that require special assistance, such as the elderly, disabled, and young children who require extra support during an evacuation.

 

EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (ERT)

It is a group of individuals trained to respond to various emergencies like fires, accidents or medical incidents

They play a crucial role in ensuring safety and minimizing risks in a workplace or community

They are typically employees who have received specialized training in first aid, fire safety, hazardous materials handling and evacuation procedures

EVACUATION TECHNIQUES AND STRATEGIES

·        Immediate and total evacuation: This technique involves the immediate and complete evacuation of all occupants of the building. It's the most common strategy, especially in small buildings or structures with straightforward evacuation routes.

·        Phased evacuation: In large buildings, particularly high-rises, phased evacuation is often a preferred technique. This strategy involves evacuating the building floor by floor, starting with those closest to the fire. It helps avoid congestion on evacuation routes and allows a more controlled exit process.

·        Horizontal and vertical evacuation: Horizontal evacuation refers to moving occupants away from the fire zone to a safer area on the same floor.
Vertical evacuation involves moving people up or down to safety from higher locations within a building, depending on factors like its design and the nature and severity of the fire outbreak.

Emergency Preparedness

 

·        Training individuals and establishing clear procedures enhance fire safety readiness and improve response effectiveness during fire emergencies.

·        Fire Drills: Conducting regular fire drills familiarises occupants with evacuation procedures and ensures a swift and organised response during emergencies.

 

• Evacuation Plans: Clearly marked exits, unobstructed pathways, and designated assembly points enhance safety during emergencies.
• Fire Safety Training: Educating individuals on fire extinguisher use, fire behaviour, and emergency response increases preparedness.
• Communication Systems: Reliable alarm systems and emergency communication channels facilitate efficient coordination during a fire incident.
• Emergency Lighting: Backup lighting ensures visibility in corridors, stairwells, and exits in case of power failure.

INTERNATIONAL FIRE SAFETY CODES AND PRACTICES

·        The International Code Council (ICC)

·        National Fire Protection Association

·        British Standards Institution

·        European Union (EU) Standards

·        International Organization for Standardization ISO

·        Fire safety laws

·        Fire safety order 2005

·        Fire safety regulations (Scotland) 2006

·        Fire safety regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006

·        The dangerous substances & explosive atmospheres regulations (DSEAR) 2002

      ·       Building act 1984